Muinastulede öö

The Night of Ancient Bonfires is one of Estonia’s most beautiful late-summer traditions, bringing together coastal history, a sense of community and the symbolic power of light. Once a year, bonfires are lit along the coast and on the islands to recall historic signal fires, used since the Viking Age to guide seafarers and send messages to neighbours. Today these fires are no longer lit out of practical necessity, but to create together a chain of bonfires around Estonia’s coastline and send good thoughts out to the sea and to people. The tradition began more than 20 years ago on Hiiumaa and other Estonian islands and has grown into a nationwide event welcoming everyone who wants to give summer a memorable send-off. Alongside the beach bonfires, concerts and community gatherings also take place at ports and in larger settlements in many locations. Find the nearest bonfire site on the map or create your own fire spot, and come enjoy a seaside evening where light, sea and people create a special sense of unity.